Plateau killings: IG orders deployment of assets, tactical squads

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate and comprehensive deployment of police tactical units to troubled communities in Plateau State. This action follows the coordinated attacks by armed assailants on March 28 in Bokkos Local Government Area, which resulted in the deaths of at least 50 people and left many others wounded. The attacks have sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about escalating insecurity in the region.
In a statement issued on Wednesday morning, Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi confirmed that the deployment was a direct response to the recent wave of attacks and killings affecting communities in the North Central state. Adejobi stated that this decisive move highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to restoring peace, ensuring the safety and security of residents, and bringing those responsible for these heinous acts to justice.
The IG has assigned the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Department of Operations, DIG Kwazhi Yakubu, to lead and coordinate the intervention. The operation will involve substantial reinforcements, including additional tactical units, advanced drones for surveillance, Armored Personnel Carriers, units of the Police Mobile Force, helicopters, and specialized platoons from the Special Intervention Squad.
Adejobi emphasized that these resources will be strategically deployed to carry out special operations aimed at effectively addressing the frequent attacks that have led to the tragic loss of innocent lives.
The statement added, “The recent escalation of violence began on March 28, 2025, when some armed assailants launched a brutal attack in Bokkos, resulting in the deaths of some individuals and serious injuries to many others.
“This initial incident tragically marked the beginning of a series of attacks that have since claimed the lives of scores of people, leaving communities devastated and gripped by fear.
“Recognising the gravity of the situation, the IGP has directed DIG Kwazhi and the deployed security forces to undertake a multi-faceted approach, focusing not only on suppressing the ongoing violence but also on proactively preventing future attacks.
“Upon arrival in Plateau State on Tuesday, 8th April 2025, DIG Kwazhi paid a courtesy visit on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang.
“During this meeting, DIG Kwazhi conveyed the IGP’s sincere condolences to the affected families and communities, as well as to the entire people of Plateau State.
“The meeting also served as an opportunity to assess the situation firsthand, delve into the root causes of the attacks, and collaboratively develop a sustainable, long-term solution to these senseless killings.
“The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, remains fully committed to working in close collaboration with the Plateau State Government, community leaders, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to restore lasting peace and stability to the region.
“The NPF urges residents to cooperate with the police and other security agencies, providing any information that may assist in the ongoing investigation and efforts to maintain peace on the Plateau.”